GEOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Diurnal patterns. Although tornadoes can occur at all times of the day, they are most frequent from mid-afternoon to early evening. In the central United States, where most tornadoes occur, tornado frequency is highest between 5:00 and 6:00 pm. Weak and strong tornadoes occur most frequently in this same hour.

Detailed explanation-2: -Tornadoes can occur at any time of the year. In southern states, peak tornado occurrence is March through May, while peak months in northern states are during the summer. Tornadoes are most likely between 3 and 9 p.m. but have occurred at all hours.

Detailed explanation-3: -Why are tornadoes most frequent in the afternoon and evening? Thunderstorms that produce tornadoes tend to occur during the afternoon and evening when the maximum heating of the atmosphere occurs.

Detailed explanation-4: -Tornadoes generally coincide with the warmest part of the day, this occurs between 3 and 6 pm. Thunderstorms are at peak formation during this period with rapidly rising air. If a thunderstorm is strong enough a tornado may form. What are thunderstorms and tornadoes?

Detailed explanation-5: -Tornadoes are storms in which powerful rotating winds form a column that extends from a cloud to the ground. Tornado winds are the strongest on Earth. They have top speeds of up to 300 miles per hour (500 kilometers per hour). High winds can flatten buildings and propel heavy objects into the air, such as cars.